Article April 16, 1984 Issue

Love—"the vital part"

MABEL BEACH BURNHAM

Christians are well aware it is necessary to have the letter of Scripture in order to gain spiritual understanding, but the letter of itself can do nothing. It must be accompanied with the spirit, the Christly animus, of divine Truth and Love. Along similar lines, Mrs. Eddy writes in Science and Health, "The vital part, the heart and soul of Christian Science, is Love. Without this, the letter is but the dead body of Science,—pulseless, cold, inanimate." Science and Health, p. 113.

The Bible tells us, "God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him." I John 4:16. Spiritual affection is an active quality of God, a life-giving, irresistible force. Christ Jesus proved this and put into practice his understanding of God as Love as he went about his humane work of healing and teaching.

Opportunities to express divine Love as Jesus did appear daily as we go about our human work, whatever it may be. Letting divine Love govern, one can learn to think more of another's needs and take every opportunity that presents itself to serve others intelligently. This perfect, unselfish affection that reflects divine Love demands nothing in return; it is freely given.

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